Explore Mystic with a Green Conscience
Are you seeking a sustainable stay that positively impacts the planet? Look no further than Mystic, Connecticut, home to The Whaler’s Inn and a host of local businesses dedicated to sustainability.
First Feature Friday- The Ditty Bag Market & Cafe
In this blog series, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on local green pioneers, starting with The Ditty Bag Market, a hidden gem conveniently situated just steps away from the Mystic Amtrak station.
If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, consider taking the train. It’s just about a 10/15-minute walk from our inn, and you can sit back, relax, and admire our wonderful shoreline without the hassles of driving.
Why Shop Green at The Ditty Bag Market?
The Ditty Bag Market isn’t your run-of-the-mill souvenir shop. It’s a beacon of eco-consciousness, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts and household goods with sustainability in mind. Owner Jason Hine is passionate about reducing plastic use and minimizing their carbon footprint.
Sustainable Suppliers
“We source our products from sustainable suppliers whenever possible,” says Jason. “Many of our items are locally made, organic, and even vegan!”
But it doesn’t stop there. The Ditty Bag Market goes above and beyond by providing a “container library” for bulk purchases and composting coffee grounds from its in-store café. It also educates customers on eco-friendly shopping habits.
Beyond Recycling: Reducing Waste 
Footprint
The Ditty Bag Market takes concrete steps beyond basic recycling to decrease its overall waste footprint. Jason explains, “To reduce the community’s plastic usage and lower our carbon footprint, we provide plastic-free and package-free items.
We also prioritize locally made products, as items made closer to home have a smaller carbon footprint. It’s crucial to eliminate our reliance on single-use plastics.”
Prioritizing Sustainable Practices
When it comes to sourcing products, The Ditty Bag Market prioritizes environmentally conscious suppliers. “All spices and teas are fair-trade and organic,” says Jason.
“We choose companies that practice zero-waste shipping and opt for vegan/plant-based products to ensure biodegradability and minimal pollution.”
Energy-Saving & Education Programs
The store also incorporates energy-saving measures into its daily operations.”In the café, we compost all used coffee grounds and encourage customers to bring their own mugs for a discount,” explains Jason.
“We offer a ‘container library’ for customer use, utilize LED lighting, and hand-wash all dishes.” Moreover, The Ditty Bag Market actively engages customers through educational programs.
Implementing Climate Action for Future Generations
“We’ve hired young individuals as ‘educators’ to promote zero-waste living,” says Jason. “We host events like bill-writing sessions and Earth Day celebrations to raise awareness and inspire change.”
To the left, you can see Roger Kuhns and Susan Chapin drafting a bill inside of the Ditty Bag. These two individuals were also key in drafting the Climate Bill-HB 5004.
This bill is meant to implement certain measures relating to climate change, including advancing and 
implementing the state’s goals for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the phasing out of the use of natural gas, investment in renewable energy and green economy startup businesses, incentivizing sustainable purchasing by local governments and the enhancement of nature-based solutions to mitigate climate change.
Looking Towards the Future
The Ditty Bag Market remains committed to its environmental goals. “Our aim is to achieve BCorp status to showcase our commitment to sustainability and education,” shares Jason.
“We’re exploring growth opportunities and securing funding to support local, sustainable economies.”
Stay Tuned for Our Series on Sustainability Stays in Mystic
Mystic offers a plethora of sustainable businesses, like The Ditty Bag Market, where you can indulge in eco-friendly shopping, delicious farm-to-table dining, and outdoor adventures that respect the environment. Plus, you can attend the Eco-fair on Saturday, April 22nd.
Join community organizations to celebrate Earth Day Expo while raising awareness of climate change and giving the community resources it needs to live more sustainably.
Add-on $22 to Your Stay to Support Local Efforts
Get ready for our next blog installment, delving into Mystic’s eco-friendly universe!
Get the scoop on top-notch vintage gems for your reduce, reuse, and recycle fix, uncover transformative spaces with a makeover to continue using the space, and keep an eye out for exciting business highlights!
In the meantime, book your stay at The Whaler’s Inn for a getaway that’s good for you and the planet.
Call our 24/7 Front Desk Team at 860-536-1506 to add $22 to your stay to give back to the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center and support their efforts to go green in our community with their Giving Garden at Coogan Farm.
